Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Sunday that casinos forming part of the government’s entertainment complex initiative will promote “responsible gambling.”
Speaking on her monthly “Empowering Thais” programme, Ms Paetongtarn explained that legalised casinos would be subject to clear criteria and regulations.
Visitor profiles from all countries may be screened, including background checks for criminal records, and guests must meet certain wealth requirements, she said.
“Entertainment complexes will not lead Thailand to its worst vices… Developed countries like Singapore, the US, Japan, and the UAE follow this global trend,” Ms Paetongtarn said.
“They know that sand, sun, and sea are no longer enough. There must be manmade attractions. We don’t want Thailand to miss the trend.”
She pointed to Japan’s plan to convert the Osaka Expo 2025 venue into an entertainment complex within five years as an example.
“With entertainment complexes, there will be no low season in Thailand,” she added.
The prime minister emphasised that casinos would be just one part of larger entertainment hubs, which would also include concert halls and hotels.
She noted that the substantial investment required would come from private investors, not from government funds or taxpayers.
“This investment will enable the government to collect more taxes… Tax will be collected from casino visitors,” Ms Paetongtarn said.
She added that the government would follow the casino model used in Singapore, as also seen in Japan and the UAE.
Ms Paetongtarn concluded by saying that critics of the plan were using it for political gain and spreading misinformation.
